Pinotage

[Pee-noe-tah-sh] South Africa’ pride, this varietal was created in 1925, in Stellenbosch, South Africa by Prof. Perold. Created from the fusion of Pinot Noir and Cinsaut and is a fruity, earthy dark red wine. Initially the varietal endured much criticism and was largely ignored as a serious varietal. The first recognition came about when a Bellevue wine made from Pinotage became a Champion of the 1959 wine show. It was also became the first wine to mention Pinotage on its labelling. Today the varietal has slowly started being grown in New Zealand, United States, Brazil, Canada, Israel and Zimbabwe. German winemakers have now also started to experiment with the varietal. The best examples of this varietal are judged annually by ‘The Pinotage Association of South Africa’ and announced in the ABSA Top Ten Pinotage competition. The varietal is also a required component of the ‘Cape blend’ and locally it is made into a full range of styles, from easy drinkers, to rosé to barrel aged wines prepared for cellaring, it is even made into sparkling and port style wines. It produces a deep colored, fruity wine that can be accessible from an early age. The vines grow vigorously and ripen early in the season. They are naturally high in tannins, and the aromas and flavours on the palate range from mulberry, blackberry and bramble fruit. A good example will have good depth of flavour and leave your palate with a fresh and unique experience.